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A letter to my son, when I’m called to go.

My love, it’s my time to leave this earth. I’m scared, and I don’t want to leave you, but I must.

So before I go I want you to know this:

Being your mother has been the most rewarding job of my life. Watching you grow up, watching you learn and succeed has filled my heart with happiness to last a thousand lifetimes.

You are the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. Thank you for making me the luckiest woman on earth. Thank you for loving me and choosing me to be your mother. I’m so proud of you, and I know you’ll go on to do big things. I’m your biggest cheerleader even if the sidelines are up in the clouds.

RELATED: I Love You More Every Day

I know times are hard for you now, but I want to you do a few things for me, OK?

I want you to remember to appreciate the little things. The world can be dark and unforgiving. I want you to find the beauty in it even when life is being cruel.

Always keep your word to people. Character is everything.

Act with kindness. The world needs more of it.

Be generous with your time and your heart.

Do more of what fills your cup and makes you happy.

Don’t be afraid to fail. I’ve watched you rise after losing, and trust me, it’s worth it to try again. Failure is OK, darling.

Above all things put your family first. Work is consuming, I know. Take time to be present with them and make lasting memories.

Pray often, and pray in thanks. There’s SO much to be thankful for.

RELATED: Dear Child, Not a Day Goes By That I Don’t Pray For You

Last but not least, don’t cry my dear. I don’t want you to fear or hurt. Our time together was well spent although I wish we could have had forever. Rejoice in the memories of living room dancing, storytime bed snuggles, spontaneous trips to the beach for fresh air and fresh perspectives on changing times. When you’re feeling down, grab some albums of the abundance of photos I took every day of us together. Relive the happiness in both our eyes in those moments.

But for now, I need you to be strong and take that love you’d normally show for me and share it with others.

It has been an honor to be your mom.

Take your time coming to me, son. I’ll be here waiting for you when the time comes. Until then, I’m loving you from way up here in the sky.

All my love forevermore,
Mom

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Jennifer Bailey

Stay at home mom enjoying one little boy and navigating parenting one trip to Target at a time.

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